Teaching and Learning

Book Review: The Amazing Generation: Your Guide to Fun and Freedom in a Screen-Filled World

By Catherine Anne Price and Jonathan Haidt

I recently finished reading The Amazing Generation, and I found myself reflecting on just how closely the books message aligns with many of the conversations I’m regularly having with other teachers and families today. As educators and parents, we're navigating a world where smartphones, social media and constant online connectivity have become the norm. At the same time, we're seeing increasing challenges around student wellbeing, attention spans, resilience, friendships and mental health.

This book doesn't suggest that technology is the enemy. Instead, it presents a balanced and hopeful argument that young people can enjoy the benefits of technology while also protecting the things that matter most—their health, relationships, learning and happiness.

One of the key messages that resonated with me was the importance of helping young people rediscover the value of real-world experiences. Time spent with friends, playing sport, being outdoors, reading, creating, building, problem-solving and simply being present all contribute to developing resilient, focused, confident and capable young people.

The authors also highlight the impact that excessive screen use can have on sleep, concentration and emotional wellbeing. Rather than advocating for unrealistic restrictions, they encourage families and schools to establish healthy habits that allow technology to remain a helpful tool rather than becoming something that controls our time and attention.

Key Takeaways

• Healthy technology habits are essential for learning, wellbeing and positive relationships.
• Sleep, exercise, face-to-face friendships and time outdoors remain some of the greatest protective factors for young people's mental health.
• Social media often presents a carefully edited version of reality and can influence self-esteem and anxiety.
• Small changes to daily routines can make a significant difference to focus, mood and overall wellbeing.

• Parents, carers and schools all play an important role in modelling healthy digital habits.

   

Suggestions for Students

• Keep your phone away while studying or completing homework to improve concentration.
• Try to avoid screens for at least an hour before bed to help improve your sleep.
• Invest in friendships by spending time together in person through sport, clubs, music or other activities.
• Make time each day for something offline—read a book, exercise, learn a new skill or simply spend time outdoors.
• Remember that what you see on social media is only part of someone's story.

Suggestions for Parents and Carers

• Model the healthy technology habits you hope to see in your children.
• Create regular screen-free family times, particularly during meals and before bedtime.
• Encourage opportunities for independence, outdoor activities, sport and face-to-face social connection.
• Keep conversations about technology open, supportive and judgement-free.

• Work alongside your children to establish healthy boundaries around devices, rather than relying solely on rules.

   

Reading this book reinforced something I think many of us already know: our young people are growing up in a very different world from previous generations. While technology brings many opportunities, it also presents challenges that require thoughtful guidance from schools and families working together.

I would highly recommend The Amazing Generation to parents, carers and anyone working with early adolescents or pre - teens. It is an optimistic, practical and relevant read that offers simple, achievable ideas for helping our young people thrive in an increasingly screen-filled world.

Term 2 Attendance - students with 100% Attendance

Congratulations to the 346 students who at the time of writing were still sitting on 100% attendance for the entirety of Term 2: This includes from each year group:

Year 7: 85 students

Year 8: 77 students

Year 9: 59 students

Year 10: 54 students

Year 11: 39 students

Year 12: 32 students

These students will receive a certificate at week 11 year meetings and will also be able to collect a food prize on the last day of school - Friday 3 July at Lunch from the EBC.

Of these 346 students - 178 also attended 100% throughout Term 1. Great work boys!

It is also pleasing to announce that a total of 782 students are currently sitting above the schools expectations of 95%+ attendance at the mid point in the year with another 402 students sitting between 90% and 94.9% attendance so far this year. Those and students below 90% we encourage you and your carers to continue working on increasing your attendance in the second semester to reach your personal best, please reach out to the school, year adviser, other wellbeing staff or myself for further support. 

Remember, every day and every lesson at school counts! Keep up the fantastic effort. 

Jonathan Bailey 

Head Teacher, Teaching and Learning